Featured resources

10-minute read
Closing Disclosure: What it is and how to read the form
Your Closing Disclosure is an important mortgage document, but it can be difficult to interpret. We broke down the essential components in this complete guid...
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7-minute read
What is an acceleration clause in real estate?
An acceleration clause in a mortgage means that your mortgage balance becomes due if you default on payments. Learn how a mortgage acceleration clause works.
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8-minute read
Mortgage fraud: What you need to know to avoid it
Mortgage fraud occurs when someone lies or omits information to get loan approval or favorable loan conditions. Learn about common types of mortgage fraud here.
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5-minute read
Deed vs. title: Know the difference
It’s a misconception that a house’s title and deed are the same, but they aren’t. Learn the differences to be prepared for your home sale o...
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4-minute read
How the constant maturity Treasury rate affects your mortgage
The Constant Maturity Treasury rate plays a key role in determining adjustable-rate mortgage interest rates. Learn how the CMT rate impacts mortgage payments...
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5-minute read
APR vs. interest rate: What's the difference?
Interest rate and annual percentage rate are terms you’ll often see when comparing mortgages and other loans. Learn the difference between APR and inte...
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3-minute read
What is the NMLS, and how can I get my license?
The Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System, or NMLS, is a database of licensed mortgage loan originators. Learn more about the NMLS and how to get a license.
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6-minute read
What is annual percentage rate and how does it work in real estate?
Annual percentage rate (APR) is the rate your loan will accrue interest at over the repayment term. See how APR works on a mortgage and why it’s important...
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8-minute read
What is Ginnie Mae (GNMA) and how does it work?
Discover how Ginnie Mae guarantees mortgage-backed securities, supports the housing market, and helps make homeownership more affordable.
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6-minute read
Float-down option: Can it lower your mortgage rate?
Want to protect yourself from higher mortgage rates? Read our article to learn all about the float-down option and how it can work with a mortgage rate lock....
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5-minute read
Co-borrower vs. co-signer: What's the difference?
If you need help getting a mortgage, a co-borrower or co-signer can bolster your application. Learn more about buying a home with a co-borrower or co-signer....
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7-minute read
Do you have an underwater mortgage? Here are your options
You have an underwater mortgage if you owe more than your home is worth. Learn the early indicators and what to do if your mortgage is upside down.
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5-minute read
What is a lien and how does it work?
A lien gives a lender or creditor the ability to claim a property to pay off a debt. Learn how they work and about other types of property debt.
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5-minute read
Contingent vs. pending: What's the difference?
Home buyers sometimes confuse contingent versus pending. Learn the difference between pending and contingent and what the two statuses mean in real estate.
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6-minute read
Loan principal definition and basics
The principal is the amount you borrowed for your loan, while interest is the fee for use of the loan. Learn how each makes up your monthly payment.
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6-minute read
House deed: Defined and explained
A house deed is a physical document legally transferring ownership of real estate. Learn more about how house deeds affect sellers and buyers.
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6-minute read
Underwriting in the mortgage process, explained
Underwriting is a crucial part of the loan approval process. Learn about what underwriting is, how long it can take, and tips for a successful experience.
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3-minute read
What is a transfer tax?
Transfer tax is a one-time fee for the transfer of property ownership. Learn how transfer tax is assessed, rules by state and local governments, and how it work...
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